About this KNoT

Nudges, models, and movements — explore the mechanics of change, then design your own.

Preparation

Please come to class having engaged with at least two of the topics (free choice).

What You’ll Learn

In this KNOT we will explore the theory of how change happens, how we can work together to create change, and apply these ideas to a case study problem. Techniques and practical theories on change, using a systems thinking approach.

Learning Resources

We will explore a number of tools for change in the workshop.

Systems Thinking approaches foundational to change

Places to intervene in a system by Dana Meadows
The Iceberg Model, donellameadows.org
An Introduction to Systems Thinking by George Richardson (hosted by i2insights)

Systems Change

Thinking Big: How to use Theory of Change for Systems Change (PDF) by Abercrombie, Boswell and Thomasoo
See the Taplin and Clark guide on Theory of Change (PDF)

Models for change management

See the Wikipedia article on Change Management (Approaches), particularly:
Lewin's 3-step model
Kotter's 8-step model
Deming's Plan-Do-Check-Act model
Case studies

Change Planning

Change planning: dreamer, realist, critic [web post on i2sinsight]

A detailed resource by Holger Nauheimer is linked from the blog post

Pace Layers by Stewart Brand

Tips & Advice

There is no formula for creating change, but there are a range of ideas you can apply. Develop your own repertoire and ideas on what works, and when.

How to Complete This KNoT

Take one of the techniques from the workshop and apply it to a problem of your choice. This could be a standalone problem, or around your project. Include a brief discussion on how it may or may not be useful in creating change.

Submit your Completion Task here:

Submit your completion task for this KNoT via the Qualtrics survey (ANU Login required). You have 10 calendar days after the KNoT to submit it.

Writing your reflection

Most completion tasks ask you to reflect on what you did. For example prompts, sentence starters, and what a strong reflection covers, see Guidance on Reflective Practice. Your completed tasks come together at the end of the semester in the KNoT Completion Evidence.

Search this site

Creating Change